Move over K-dramas, dizi days are here

Selahaddin Eyyubi

In the past six years, the Korean wave took India by storm as K-dramas became wildly popular. Something tells us another wave is on the horizon. In 2023, Turkish dramas - known as dizi - saw a rapid growth in viewership in India. It's not surprising then that many Turkish shows are set to stream in the country with Hindi dubs. Following Dirilis: Ertugrul's wide success in India since 2019, the historical saga, Kudus Fatihi Selahaddin Eyyubi, is set to be released in Hindi on February 20, on the YouTube channel of Turkish Radio and Television Corporation.

Dirilis: Ertugrul became a rage when it dropped online in 2019

Producer Kashif Ansari of Ansari Shah Films, which has backed both dramas, points out that Turkish offerings' viewership has seen a steady rise worldwide over the past decade. "The Indian audience has shown a strong fondness for Diriliş: Ertuğrul. Additionally, Intersection [original title Kördüğüm], Ishq-e-Mamnu, and As The Crow Flies have been well-received. Given the consistent interest in Turkish serials from this region, it was a logical decision to dub Selahaddin Eyyubi in Hindi and Urdu. We have executed it on a grand scale, and I believe it will resonate with the Indian audience. They are among the most discerning audiences, and know how to sift quality from quantity. The decision to dub Selahaddin in Hindi was also driven by a desire to convey a message of justice, equality and peace to our viewers," says the producer.

Kashif Ansari, producer

At a time when the world is witnessing wars, conflicts and chaos, Ansari believes that stories of compassion emerging from different corners are crucial. He underlines that the upcoming show depicts the life of the 12th century leader Saladin, promoting his values of equality and justice. "Amid the current global polarisation, we aim for viewers worldwide to embrace the message of peaceful co-existence, transcending religious and ethnic boundaries. World peace is hanging by a thread, every [country] is trying to assert its supremacy - in terms of religion or military power. This series portrays Selahaddin's time, highlighting justice, equality and peace. It makes us question the world we leave for our children."

Besides Selahaddin Eyyubi, Ansari hopes to have more local offerings dubbed in Urdu and Hindi, thus making them more accessible to eager fans. "We hope to take Selahaddin across the world. The viewership projection is seven billion," he says optimistically.